Excitement builds for show's return
DECATUR – The ninth Farm Progress Show to be held in Decatur next week looks to be a great show, a year after COVID forced the cancellation of the Iowa event.
During Wednesday’s media preview day on the show grounds at Progress City U.S.A. near Richland Community College, organizers were just happy to have a live in-person show once again. Even though no large ag events were held last year, companies still unveiled new technology which they finally get to show off this year.
All eyes in the agricultural world will be on Decatur next Tuesday through Thursday with visitors expected from every state and even some from other parts of the world, although the number of international visitors will be down due to the pandemic. Plenty of political issues will be discussed too.
“This is where ag policy is shaped,” said the show’s Don Tourte.
As always, the latest and greatest in ag will be displayed at the epicenter of farming.
“We can’t think of a better place to hit the reset button than here at the Farm Progress Show,” added Tourte.
BASF kicks off the Tuesday morning events with an 8:30 a.m. press conference for media to discuss what is happening with the company. The grounds which host the show are looking the best they ever have, even though more than a half inch of rain fell on the site the night before media day. This shows the value of a permanent show site.
Director of events Matt Jungmann agrees that it is wonderful to be back in person for the 2021 show. He notes local and state COVID guidance will be followed. If indoors, masks are recommended but not mandated. Some exhibitors may have different policies however.
“We are going to support that if that’s their wish,” said Jungmann.
Plenty of field harvest and tillage demonstrations are planned along with ride and drive events, autonomous ag technology and even a country music concert on Wednesday evening.
